Paul Sakkal

Paul Sakkal, Chief Political Correspondent for The Age and the Sydney Morning Herald, dives into Sydney’s recent protest for Palestinian rights, emphasizing the significant political implications of such large-scale activism. He discusses the upcoming National Economic Reform Roundtable, highlighting the confusion and urgency surrounding tax reforms. Sakkal also addresses pressing Indigenous issues, championing government action on community challenges. Finally, he explores the evolving landscape of AI regulation in Australia and its effect on politics and media.

Paul Sakkal, a Federal Political Correspondent with the SMH and The Age, joins the discussion on the Albanese Government's struggles to connect with voters despite increased spending initiatives. They explore the contentious bipartisan agreement to boost Medicare funding and the contrasting strategies of each party. Polling reveals slipping support for Labor, driving conversations about voter disconnection and party credibility. The podcast also touches on the ongoing housing crisis and the complexities of addressing community concerns amid political maneuvers.

Paul Sakkal, a chief political correspondent, and Natassia Chrysanthos, a federal political correspondent, delve into the eyebrow-raising $100,000 spent by Communications Minister Anika Wells on flights to New York. They discuss the implications of such extravagant expenses amid a cost-of-living crisis and scrutinize the opaque booking processes. The duo also addresses the upcoming social media ban and its challenges, emphasizing the need for transparency in government spending. Plus, they touch on Prime Minister Albanese's recent honeymoon.

Join Paul Sakkal, chief political correspondent at The Age/Sydney Morning Herald, and James Massola, chief political commentator, as they dissect the unfolding drama within the Liberal Party over its net zero policy. They delve into the murky details of Susan Lee's press conference, the Coalition's muddled strategy, and whether cost-of-living concerns can truly sway public opinion on climate change. The discussion also examines past leaders' influences, internal polling feedback, and the fragile state of Lee's leadership amidst increasing pressures.

Paul Sakkal, Chief Political Correspondent, offers sharp insights into the Albanese government's weaknesses amidst its international successes. He discusses the alarming economic challenges, including rising inflation and unemployment rates, and the pressure on energy policies affecting regional jobs. Sakkal also unpacks the controversy surrounding Albanese's T-shirt and the ineffective political strategies of the Coalition, revealing a landscape where culture clashes often overshadow substantial policy debates.

Join Paul Sakkal, a chief political correspondent dissecting the Albanese government, and Shane Wright, a chief economics correspondent focusing on budget implications. They dive into Albanese's impending meeting with Trump, unraveling objectives like critical minerals and trade negotiations. The duo discusses political fallout from superannuation policy backtracks, revealing tensions between Albanese and Treasurer Jim Chalmers. With insights into economic ramifications of tariffs and the road ahead for Australian reforms, it's a riveting analysis of current politics and economics.

Matthew Knott, a foreign affairs correspondent, shares insights from the UN, highlighting Albanese’s climate diplomacy and push for a Security Council seat. Paul Sakkal, a political correspondent, discusses the domestic ramifications of recognizing Palestinian statehood. The conversation reveals how Albanese's relaxed demeanor during his New York visit played into securing a selfie with Trump, signaling a strategic rapport. Both experts delve into the challenges and calculations behind diplomatic moves and the importance of multilateralism in today’s political climate.

Paul Sakkal, Chief Political Correspondent, joins the discussion on the dismissal of Jacinta Nampijinpa Price from the Coalition frontbench. They dissect her controversial comments about the Indian community and the tensions within the Liberal Party. Sakkal explores the ramifications of her sacking, with Price's defiance potentially turning her into a martyr for her supporters. The conversation also touches on the impending climate policy debate, highlighting the challenges the government faces as they navigate their emissions targets.

Join Chief Political Correspondent Paul Sakkal and Federal Political Correspondent Natassia Chrysanthos as they delve into the heated immigration debate following recent anti-immigration rallies in Australia. They discuss how political leaders grapple with public concerns while rejecting extremist ideologies, particularly neo-Nazism. The conversation also highlights the economic importance of immigration in sectors like healthcare, the role of media in extremist recruitment, and the broader global trends of xenophobia influencing local narratives.

Matthew Knott, a national security correspondent, breaks down Iran's alarming orchestrations of attacks on Australia’s Jewish community. Paul Sakkal, the chief political correspondent, discusses the political ramifications, including the rare move of expelling the Iranian ambassador. They delve into the chaotic organization behind the attacks, drawing thrilling parallels to a spy novel. The conversation also touches on the broader implications for Australia’s national security and the rising antisemitism impacting the community.